Maryland Pedestrian Accidents: How To Protect Yourself Against Potentially Life-Threatening Personal Injuries
With the warmer spring weather, Maryland residents are likely to spend more time outdoors. Whether you are visiting local parks, browsing your favorite shopping districts, or attending one of the numerous events going on throughout the state, make safety a priority. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents in Maryland happen frequently and can cause potentially life-threatening personal injuries. Our Maryland pedestrian accident attorneys explain some of the most common causes and ways to protect yourself.
Maryland Pedestrian Accidents Take A Terrible Toll
The Maryland Department of Health warns that pedestrian accidents pose major risks to residents throughout the state. Close to 150,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for pedestrian accident injuries each year. Sadly, these end up claiming the lives of over 5,000 victims.
A string of fatal pedestrian accidents in Maryland happened in early 2024. One of the most recent was a crash on Powder Mill Road in Prince George County. According to a March 2024 WUSA 9 News report, the victim was hit while in a crosswalk. Residents say they have filed numerous complaints about speeding and other dangerous driving behavior in the area.
Going over the speed limit and failing to yield at crosswalks are two of the most common ways pedestrian accidents in Maryland happen. Other common causes include:
- Running red lights and stop signs;
- Driving distracted, such as when looking at cell phones;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Drowsy driving and falling asleep behind the wheel.
How To Protect Yourself Against Pedestrian Accidents In Maryland
Pedestrian accidents in Maryland can happen when walking in your neighborhood, on busy city streets, or in local parking lots. To protect yourself, the Maryland State Highway Administration recommends following these tips:
- Stick to designated sidewalks and pedestrian trails when possible;
- Use crosswalks at busy intersections, but never assume a driver sees you or will stop;
- Use extra caution in parking lots and be alert for drivers pulling out of spaces;
- Wear light, bright colors when walking at night;
- Avoid walking while under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs, or medications;
- Avoid using earbuds and other distractions that could cause you to miss signs of an impending crash.
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident in Maryland, notify the police immediately. Get a description of the driver, as hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common. Seek medical care for your injuries and contact our experienced Maryland pedestrian accident attorneys. We help you get the compensation you need to recover in a claim.
Contact Our Maryland Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Pedestrian accidents in Maryland can cause devastating and potentially life-threatening personal injuries. Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP protects the rights of victims and their families, helping them get the compensation they need to recover.
To get the caring support and professional legal representation you need in filing a claim, call or contact our Maryland pedestrian accident attorneys and request a free consultation today.
Sources:
health.maryland.gov/phpa/ohpetup/Shared%20Documents/Pedestrians%20Related%20Health%20Injuries.pdf
wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/pedestrian-struck-killed-in-beltsville-maryland/65-9df35bcf-203f-48b5-be05-20826eac970b
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/index.aspx?PageId=376
